After skating six consecutive days without reporting concussion symptoms Capitals center Nicklas Backstrom was given a scheduled day off the ice today at Kettler Capitals Iceplex.

Sidelined since Jan. 3, Backstrom is gradually increasing the intensity of his on-ice workouts and his steady progress is a beacon of hope for Caps fans waiting to see their team with a fully assembled roster for the first time since October.

"It looks like the worst is behind him," Capitals general manager George McPhee told CSNwashington. "He's one heck of a hockey player and it's nice to see him skating again. We just have to be very patient and careful, use a lot of common sense and make sure he's healthy short term and long term."